Having student leaders is extremely helpful in accelerating your ministry. But where do you get them? Here are three ways we have seen success in getting student leaders on board.
Find Existing Leaders on Campus
Start with prayer! Ask God to show you who the leaders are and ask for wisdom and insight. Also, pray you would find favor with leaders as you get to know them. God knows who these leaders are, and they may not be who you think they are. God might lead you to the student body president or to the goofy guy everyone loves to hang out with.
The most helpful way to get started is to ask a student or a teacher on campus who the leaders are. If appropriate, ask the student or teacher which leaders go to church or have a spiritual interest. Another way to identify leaders is by checking out team rosters online or through the programs handed out at games. Getting familiar with the clubs and teams on campus will help in identifying leaders.
Most student leaders are interested in being influencers, so talk to them about how they can be in influencers for Christ. Cast vision for their influence as possible leaders in Cru and how God could use them to reach their school.
In some cases, closed campuses may limit your exposure to student leaders. In these cases, leaders can often be found through relationships with local church youth groups or by using the Getting to Know Your Campus Questionaire.
Most student leaders are interested in being influencers, so talk to them about how they can be in influencers for Christ.
Develop Leaders through Your Ministry
Sometimes you find leaders, but most of the time you make your own. Give students opportunities to lead even if it is messy and develop and encourage them through it. This will influence others to desire to lead and give them a vision for how they can serve in your ministry. Take notice of those who are always stepping up to help, whether they are outspoken or quiet and consistent, and devote time to developing them.
Develop a Culture of Student Leadership
Creating an environment for leaders to thrive will draw more leaders over time because they will see an opportunity to lead. Leaders want to “do” leadership things, not just sit and watch. A way to ensure a culture of leadership is to make sure students are doing the work of the ministry, not the adults or staff members. Putting leaders in charge will influence others to take charge.
It is crucial to your ministry to find student leaders. Without them, it is difficult to have a thriving, growing, long-term ministry. Without students leading the way and creating a path for new leaders, your ministry could dwindle to an ingrown small group Bible study.
Using student leaders creates the potential to multiply your ministry, build momentum, and ensure longevity. Finding leaders, developing them, and creating a culture of student leadership is the best way to reach your campus for Jesus!
